Dog walkers have been warned of a toxic algae found in a stream which could potentially kill animals.

Rochford District Council have issued a warning over the highly dangerous algae, which was found at Cherry Orchard Park.

A walker spotted the bright green stream which can harm, or even kill, animals and cause skin-rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, and diarrhoea in people.

People are advised to keep their dogs away from ponds and on leashes until the algae is dealt with.

The council is currently putting warning signs up near the affected ponds.

In a statement, Rochford District council said: “Due to suspected Blue-Green Algae at Cherry Orchard Country Park, Rochford District Council are asking users of the park to stay clear of the ponds and to keep their dogs on leads when they are anywhere near them.